Production Associate III (Tower Operator) - 2nd Shift

Department: SMT (117)

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Chester, CT

Compensation: $18.00 - $21.00 / hour

Description

Job Title: Production Associate III (Tower Operator)

Schedule: Monday – Friday 2:30 PM – 11:00 PM

Facility location: Chester, CT

Summary:

Independently operates and manages automated storage systems, including Kardex and Shark towers, to support efficient material flow for production. Ensures accurate inventory control, timely material delivery, and organized stock management to meet production demands. Consistently meets quality, accuracy, and productivity objectives by maintaining inventory integrity and system reliability. Supports production operations through material replenishment, cycle counting, and continuous process improvement to optimize inventory performance.

Duties and Responsibilities

Demonstrates situational awareness and accountability while managing automated material storage systems to ensure accurate and efficient inventory flow.
Plays a critical role in supporting production by ensuring materials are available, properly stored, and delivered in a timely manner within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Takes ownership of assigned inventory systems during the shift, ensuring accuracy, organization, and adherence to company standards.
Operates Kardex and Shark tower systems to store, retrieve, and track materials required for production.
Monitors inventory levels, performs cycle counts, and investigates discrepancies to maintain inventory accuracy.
Maintains a proactive approach to material flow and inventory control by working closely with production, purchasing, and planning teams.
Demonstrates initiative and supports continuous improvement efforts related to inventory processes and system efficiency.
Resolves routine inventory and system issues independently and escalates more complex issues as needed.
Works independently while effectively managing time and priorities to ensure production needs are met.
Communicates material shortages, discrepancies, and improvement opportunities to leadership and cross-functional teams.
Maintains organization and cleanliness of inventory areas, including storage systems and workspaces.
Reads and interprets work orders, bills of material (BOMs), and inventory documentation to support accurate material handling.
Uses computer systems to track inventory transactions, print documentation, and manage stock levels.
Ensures proper handling, labeling, and storage of materials in accordance with company standards.
Maintains a high level of accuracy and attention to detail to ensure inventory integrity and production support.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience working in manufacturing, warehouse, or inventory control preferred but not required
Basic computer literacy and comfort working with inventory systems or automated storage equipment
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Ability to multitask and perform in a fast-paced environment
A team player with good communication skills
Willingness to learn new systems and processes
Dependable and punctual

Education and Experience

High School diploma or equivalent preferred but not required
Prior manufacturing experience preferred but not required

Physical demands and abilities

Able to lift up to 35 pounds
Regularly performs repetitive tasks
Able to stand for entire shift
Regularly possesses manual dexterity to put parts or pieces together quickly and accurately
Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Duties and Responsibilities

Education and Experience

About Whelen Engineering